Teachers trained for constructing 'telescope'

A three-day workshop on making 'telescope' using local resources has concluded at Chhauni-based Shree Panchakanya Secondary School.

The workshop was conducted at the coordination of Office of Astronomy for Nepal, Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, India, and Panchakanya Secondary School.

On the occasion, a telescope was made using means and resources available at local-level at the initiative of national public relation coordinators for Nepal and India representing in the International Astronomical Union.

Nepal Astronomical Society's Chairperson Suresh Bhattarai said the five-inch reflector telescope made by participants in the workshop is the first in Nepal.

A total of 21 participants—science teachers and students of seven schools in and outside the Kathmandu Valley- had attended the workshop where programme officer of Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, India, Samir Dhurde, had imparted training.

The trainees were imparted orientation for making reflecting telescopes and refracting telescopes. The participants made eight telescopes using local materials and lenses and mirrors brought from India.

"This type of workshop is indispensable for teachers as to the students. There is a lack of practical knowledge among teachers. They have learned to make telescope with hard work and effort within three days", said NASO Project Coordinator Manish Dwa.

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